Warfarin is an anti-clotting (anticoagulant) medication prescribed either to prevent clots
forming in the blood, or to treat clots that have already appeared.
Warfarin tablets are available in three strengths : 1 milligram (brown), 3 milligram (blue)
and 5 milligram (pink). The amount of warfarin you need may vary, especially when you start
the treatment, so it is advisable to keep a supply of all three tablet sizes. Your GP can
prescribe this for you and can supply a much larger amount than the hospital pharmacy.
When should I take it ?
Warfarin should be taken at the same time every day, preferably at six o’clock in the evening.
Warfarin remains active in the blood stream for one-and-a-half to two-and a-half days, so if
you forget to take your dose do not take twice as much the following day, just continue with
your usual dose.
Too much warfarin can be dangerous and cause excessive bleeding.
Tell your GP
It is very important that you tell your GP that you have been prescribed warfarin.
Some medications can affect the levels of warfarin in the blood stream, including
most antibiotics.
So always consult your GP before starting or stopping any medications. You may also
need to stop taking warfarin before some treatments can be carried out, such as
surgery and dentistry.
Tell your dentist
You should also inform your dentist, as there is a risk of bleeding during dental procedures.
Tell your pharmacist
Your pharmacist can also give you advice on medications that may affect the warfarin.
Are there any side-effects?
Very rarely people experience mild nausea, as with other medicines, but this will quickly
pass. Any prolonged bouts of nausea and vomiting or diarrhoea need to be reported to y
our GP, as that could affect how much warfarin you are absorbing.
Are there any dangers to warfarin?
If taken correctly and you have your blood test done regularly, there should be no problems
at all. Warning signs that you may have too much warfarin in your blood stream are:
If you experience any of the above symptoms you must
contact either your GP
Pregnancy and warfarin
It is very important to discuss with the doctor before planning pregnancy. Warfarin does
cross the placenta and could harm the unborn child. There are alternative anticoagulant medications
which can be used during pregnancy
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